A growing number of fragrance enthusiasts from the community known as Negrense Alcoholics (Frags) gathered for their monthly “Sniff Session” on April 19 at Don Miguel Cafe in Bacolod, highlighting the steady rise of perfume appreciation in the city and across Negros Occidental.
The gathering began at 5:30 p.m. and concluded at around 8 p.m., as members filled the venue with conversations centered on artistry, craftsmanship, and the shared passion for fine scents. What started as a niche hobby among a few collectors has gradually developed into an active and welcoming local community composed of students, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and long-time perfume lovers.
During the session, participants showcased an extensive selection of fragrances from various categories, including designer, niche, Middle Eastern, and proudly local creations. Well-known international brands were presented alongside emerging independent labels, allowing attendees to experience a broad spectrum of olfactory styles, that is from fresh citrus and aquatic compositions to rich gourmands, woody oriental, smoky resins, and complex floral blends.
Bottles were passed around the table as members sampled each fragrance on test strips and skin, exchanging detailed impressions on scent profile, projection, longevity, versatility, and value for money. Friendly discussions also emerged regarding signature scents, hidden gems, discontinued favorites, and affordable alternatives that deliver premium-quality performance.
Members said the monthly “Sniff Session” has become more than just a casual meetup, serving as a learning space for both seasoned collectors and newcomers interested in entering the hobby. Beginners were introduced to fragrance families, layering techniques, proper application, storage practices, and how body chemistry can influence scent performance. Veteran enthusiasts, meanwhile, shared insights from years of collecting and testing perfumes from around the world.
The event also reflected the growing appreciation for Middle Eastern perfumery and local fragrance houses, two segments that continue to gain popularity among collectors for their quality, uniqueness, and strong performance. Several attendees noted that Filipino-made scents are steadily improving in presentation and formulation, earning recognition alongside more established global brands.
Held at the scenic Don Miguel Cafe, the session benefited from a relaxed waterfront atmosphere where members enjoyed coffee and refreshments while discussing recent purchases, future acquisitions, and upcoming releases in the fragrance market. The casual setting helped strengthen friendships among members who first connected online through their common interest in perfumery.
Observers said the increasing attendance at each meetup signals that fragrance culture in Bacolod is on the rise. Once considered a luxury hobby reserved for a few, perfume collecting has become more accessible through decants, online communities, local sellers, and growing consumer awareness of scent as a form of self-expression.
Organizers said the monthly “Sniff Session” will continue as the community expands, with plans to welcome more enthusiasts from across the province. For many members, the gatherings are not only about smelling fragrances, but about building connections, sharing knowledge, and celebrating a passion that continues to unite people from different walks of life.*
